I always used a hand control until I got my Power Drive V2. It took me a while to get used to that electric steering as it will sure take you more than where you want to go very quickly. I never have wanted the copilot, but I've got a fairly small boat you dont want to walk around in. I do wish I had the autopilot, so I wouldn't have to keep adjusting the steering if I'm going from one side of the lake to the other.